Renaming Airports: A Guide To Navigating The Process Successfully

Changing the name of an airport is a complex process that involves multiple stakeholders and a set of procedures. The final decision rests with the airport owners and its executive board, who must consider the impact of the new name on the community, culture, and heritage of the region. The process typically begins with a proposal, which can come from various sources, including senior leadership, consultancies, or public opinion. Once the decision is made, approval for IATA location codes must be obtained from IATA in Montreal, and the airport authority must provide evidence of the new name being used, such as signage or promotional material.

Submit name changes electronically via the Airport Data and Information Portal

To change the name of an existing airport, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) must receive confirmation from the airport authority. The airport authority should provide IATA with evidence of the new name of the airport in use, either in the form of airport signage or promotional material. All change requests should be logged as a query on the IATA portal.

To submit name changes, users must go to the Airport Data and Information Portal. This is the only way to submit name changes electronically. Here, users will find the Airport Data Change (Public/Private Use) Form. This form is for all airport name or ownership changes.

The IATA portal can be used to log a query for a name change. However, the final decision rests with the airport owners and their executive board. If the name change is approved, the next step is to gain approval for IATA location codes, which are approved by IATA in Montreal. These codes are used to identify the airport and are sometimes used in conjunction with the naming of the airport.

The Airport Data and Information Portal is a straightforward way to submit name change requests for airports. It is a simple process that ensures your request is seen and processed by the relevant authorities.

Provide evidence of the new name in the form of signage or promotional material

To change the name of an existing airport, confirmation from the airport authority must be received by IATA. The airport authority should then provide IATA with evidence of the new name of the airport in use, either in the form of airport signage or promotional material.

Airport signage is essential for creating a positive customer experience and reducing stress and confusion for travellers. Signage in airports serves a variety of purposes, including wayfinding, branding, flight information, paid advertising, and public art. Wayfinding signage in airports should use directional symbols and easy-to-understand icons to cater to the diverse range of travellers who may be in a rush. It is also important to use highly contrasting colours, clear typefaces, and comfortable type sizes to improve readability.

Promotional materials refer to any communication that relates to the company or its services, including published written texts, training materials, advertisements, market analysis, research reports, and correspondence to customers. In the context of an airport name change, promotional materials could include items such as brochures, pamphlets, or advertisements featuring the new airport name.

When providing evidence of the new name through signage or promotional materials, it is important to ensure that the new name is clearly displayed and visible to travellers. This could include updating signage at the airport entrance, on airport maps, or on directional signs throughout the airport. Additionally, promotional materials such as brochures or advertisements featuring the new airport name could be displayed in prominent locations within the airport or distributed to travellers.

By providing evidence of the new name in the form of signage or promotional material, airport authorities can effectively communicate the name change to travellers and ensure a smooth transition to the new airport identity.

Gain approval for IATA location codes

IATA codes are an integral part of the travel industry and are essential for the identification of an airline, its destinations, and its traffic documents. They are also fundamental to the smooth running of hundreds of electronic applications built for passenger and cargo traffic purposes.

Airlines and CRSs may request the assignment of a unique three-letter code to identify a location like an airport. Bus or ferry stations may be eligible for an IATA location identifier if they are involved in intermodal airline travel.

To apply for an IATA location code, visit the IATA Codes page on the IATA Customer Portal. Here, you will find the Location Codes Requirements document, which outlines the requirements for obtaining an IATA location code.

In addition to applying for an IATA location code, changing the name of an existing airport also requires confirmation from the airport authority. The airport authority should provide IATA with evidence of the new name of the airport in use, either in the form of airport signage or promotional material. All change requests should be logged as a query on the IATA portal.

Consider the overall business objectives and long-term vision of the airport

When considering a name change for an airport, it is important to keep in mind the overall business objectives and long-term vision of the airport. This means taking into account the airport's strategic plan, which identifies the vision and long-term strategic goals, typically with a time horizon of 10 to 20 years. The strategic plan should be aligned with the business objectives, which are outlined in the airport's business plan. This plan sets out the specific goals and actions to be carried out within each functional area of the airport, usually with a time horizon of 1 year.

The business objectives and long-term vision of the airport should be considered in conjunction with the needs and expectations of the community it serves, including domestic and international passengers, as well as the city or country of location. This means taking into account the cultural and historical context of the region, as well as the future development goals of the area. For example, an airport may want to associate itself with a famous local figure, a natural landmark, or an influential leader to boost its reputation and attract tourists.

In addition, the business objectives should consider the airport's role as a driver of economic and social benefits. Airports provide essential infrastructure that supports aviation and facilitates trade, travel, and logistics. Therefore, the name of the airport should not hinder its ability to connect with the global ecosystem and promote itself as a competent, customer-friendly hub.

A rebrand or name change should also be considered within the context of the airport's master plan, which assesses the current capacity of its infrastructure, evaluates current and projected demand, identifies deficiencies, and outlines short-, medium-, and long-term development goals. The master plan provides a comprehensive vision and strategy that balances various elements and guides the long-term development of the airport in a sustainable and cost-efficient manner. Therefore, the name change should support the overall vision and strategy outlined in the master plan.

Finally, the business objectives and long-term vision should take into account the potential pitfalls and challenges associated with a name change. This includes considering the impact on stakeholders, particularly in large legacy organisations that may be slow to adapt to change. A name change can be a complex process involving multiple stakeholders, including government decision-makers, influencers, national and local authorities, senior airport leadership, partners, employees, and passengers. Therefore, the process should be carefully managed to ensure a smooth transition and avoid any negative impact on the airport's operations and reputation.

Get suggestions for a new name from the public

Getting Public Suggestions for a New Airport Name

When it comes to changing the name of an airport, the process can vary depending on location and ownership structure. However, one important step is to gather suggestions and input from the public. Here are some guidelines on how to effectively get public suggestions for a new airport name:

Understanding the Role of an Airport Name

An airport's name is more than just a label; it carries significant weight and has a close connection to the identity, culture, and heritage of the surrounding community, city, or country. As Mike Curtis, co-founder and CEO of global creative agency StartJG, explains, airports are "statements of national pride." Therefore, when considering a new name, it is essential to recognise the impact it will have on the public and the various stakeholders involved.

Engaging the Public for Suggestions

To gather suggestions from the public, consider the following steps:

• Communication Channels: Utilise various communication channels to reach a diverse range of community members. This can include online platforms such as social media, email newsletters, and official websites. Don't forget more traditional methods like public forums, town hall meetings, or even suggestion boxes at the airport itself.
• Encourage Participation: Make it easy and accessible for people to submit their ideas. Provide clear instructions on how to submit suggestions, including any deadlines or criteria that must be met. You could even consider incentives or prizes for the best suggestions to encourage more people to participate.
• Involve Local Communities: Ensure that the process is inclusive and engaging for the local communities, especially those with a strong connection to the airport. Their input is valuable and can help shape a name that reflects the region's identity.
• Provide Context: When seeking suggestions, provide context for the name change. Explain the reasons behind the decision and any specific themes, values, or criteria that the new name should align with. This will help guide the public's suggestions and ensure they are relevant and meaningful.
• Gathering and Reviewing Submissions: Develop a system to collect and organise all the suggestions received. This could be through an online form, a dedicated email address, or even a physical suggestion box. Once the submission period is over, a committee should be formed to review the suggestions, considering factors such as appropriateness, cultural sensitivity, and how well the suggestions represent the airport's vision and values.
• Shortlisting and Voting: From the submissions, create a shortlist of potential names that meet the criteria and best reflect the airport's goals. You can then open this shortlist to a public vote, allowing the community to have a direct say in the final decision.

Benefits of Public Engagement

Involving the public in the renaming process offers several advantages:

• Community Engagement: It provides a unique opportunity to engage the community and make them feel valued and included in the airport's decision-making process.
• Local Pride: By reflecting the community's identity and values in the new name, public suggestions can foster a sense of local pride and ownership of the airport.
• Stakeholder Alignment: Gathering public input helps to align the various stakeholders, ensuring that the chosen name is well-received and supported by those who interact with the airport.
• Avoiding Pitfalls: Public engagement can help to identify potential issues or controversies associated with certain names, preventing embarrassing or problematic choices.
• Marketing and Brand Awareness: A well-chosen name with public support can enhance the airport's brand and marketing efforts, creating a positive and lasting impression on travellers.

Final Thoughts

While getting suggestions from the public is a crucial step, it is essential to remember that the final decision-making power rests with the airport's owners and executive board. Additionally, any name change must follow the necessary approval procedures, such as gaining confirmation from the airport authority and meeting the requirements of aviation organisations like IATA.

Frequently asked questions